Making decisions about returning to work after sustaining an injury is often a complex process, entwined with moral, legal, and subjective factors. Pain and mobility limitations, which are pivotal aspects of this process, can be influenced by the personal biases of both the injured worker and the evaluator. While the primary goal of a Functional Capacity Assessment is to ascertain an individual’s physical capabilities, it is equally crucial to objectively measure their level of engagement and effort.

The KEY Assessment Methodology employs a comprehensive set of 85 data points to accurately gauge the effort and participation level of each individual during the Functional Capacity Assessment. This approach aims to address common questions that arise during the return-to-work decision-making process:

• What should be done for a worker who keeps getting re-injured every time they return to work?
• How can we assist a worker who might be overexerting themselves?
• What is the best approach for a worker experiencing chronic pain?
• How can we support a worker who appears unable to perform at their previous levels?

For stakeholders like physicians, employers, employees, insurers, and attorneys, understanding the true Participation Level of a worker as they return to their job is of utmost importance. The KEY Assessment Method acts as a “truth serum for the body,” enabling therapists to provide objective and legally sound answers to these pressing questions.

It’s noteworthy that statistical data reveals that only a mere 5 percent of individuals undergoing Functional Capacity Assessments are found to be “malingerers,” meaning those who consciously exaggerate their incapacity. Once assessments are completed, individuals are categorized into one of four groups:

• Valid Participation – The individual is putting in their full effort and can safely return to work at the recommended levels.
• Invalid Participation – The individual is consciously exerting less effort than they are capable of, which may result in adjusted payouts and legal implications.
• Conditionally Valid Participation – The individual unknowingly demonstrates less capacity than their true potential, often due to fear or misperceptions. They may require assistance to overcome these limitations but can return to work at the capacity demonstrated during the assessment.
• Conditionally Invalid Participation – The individual is overextending themselves beyond their true and safe capacity, increasing the risk of re-injury unless appropriate measures are implemented.

Irrespective of other perspectives, the KEY Method’s utilization of 85 data points provides a legally defensible basis for making return-to-work decisions. Physicians, therapists, and employers can also employ the assessment results to craft tailored treatment plans, resulting in a positive outcome for all parties involved.

Contact us to learn more about the KEY Method and how you can utilize it to build your position as a “key” member of this multifaceted team!